If you’re planning to sand old timber floorboards, one of the first questions to ask is whether there could be lead paint underneath. In many older Auckland homes, especially those built before the late 1970s, lead-based coatings may still be present under later layers of paint or varnish.
The tricky part is that lead paint often looks just like any other old paint. You usually can’t tell by colour, condition, or age alone, so a bit of checking before sanding can help you avoid spreading dangerous dust through the home.
Why lead paint matters before sanding
Sanding lead paint creates fine dust that can settle on floors, skirtings, furniture, and soft furnishings. That dust can be breathed in or carried through the house on shoes and clothes, which is why old painted floorboards need a careful approach.
In Auckland’s older suburbs, it’s common to find original timber floors that have been painted multiple times over the years. Even if the top layer looks sound, there may still be lead in the lower coats.
- Lead is most likely in homes painted before 1970, but it can also appear in later repaints
- Older villas, bungalows, and villas converted for modern use often have multiple paint layers
- Sanding, dry scraping, and aggressive heat can release hazardous dust or fumes
How to check for lead paint on floorboards
The most reliable way to know is to have the paint tested. You can use a lead test kit from a specialist supplier or ask a professional to assess the surfaces. Test kits can be useful, but they must be used carefully and read correctly.
A test kit usually checks the top layer only. If your floorboards have several coats of paint, the result may not tell you what is underneath. If you’re unsure, a professional assessment is the safer option.
Signs that suggest a higher chance of lead paint include an older home, layers of old paint, chalky or worn coatings, and painted timber that hasn’t been stripped before.
- Check the age of the home and any renovation history
- Look for multiple old paint layers on skirtings, doors, and floor edges
- Use a properly applied lead test kit if the surface is accessible
- If in doubt, arrange a professional inspection before sanding
What to do if you’re not sure
If you can’t confirm whether lead is present, it’s best to treat the floorboards as if they do contain lead paint. That means avoiding dry sanding until you’ve had proper advice. Depending on the condition of the coating, alternatives may include careful encapsulation, spot repairs, or a controlled removal method.
It also helps to plan the whole preparation stage before any equipment comes out. Good preparation can limit dust, reduce the chance of cross-contamination, and protect nearby rooms and belongings.
- Do not dry sand until lead risk is ruled out
- Keep children and pets away from the work area
- Use containment, clean-up, and PPE suited to lead-safe work
- Vacuum with a proper HEPA-rated system, not a household vacuum
When to call Steve
If you’re dealing with old floorboards and you’re not sure what’s under the surface, it’s worth getting advice before you start sanding. Steve is a Kiwi and a trade-qualified painter who can assess the condition of the floorboards, talk you through the risks, and recommend the safest preparation method for your home.
That’s especially useful in older Auckland properties where paint history can be patchy and hidden layers are common. A careful site-specific approach can save time, protect your home from dust, and help you avoid a messy or unsafe job.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you tell if floorboards have lead paint just by looking at them?
No, not reliably. Age, wear, and the number of paint layers can suggest a higher risk, but visual checks alone can’t confirm lead. Testing is the safest way to know.
Is it safe to sand painted floorboards if I open a window?
Not if lead paint may be present. Ventilation alone won’t stop hazardous dust from spreading. If lead is possible, stop and test or get advice before sanding.
What should I do if a lead test comes back positive?
Do not dry sand the floorboards. Seal off the area, keep dust contained, and speak with a professional about lead-safe preparation or removal options.
Need a hand with your project?
Happy to tackle some of it yourself? Great — but for anything you’d rather leave to a professional, Steve Lunjevich is a Kiwi and a trade-qualified painter with 20+ years’ experience. Call or email for honest advice or a free, no-obligation quote.
